US20190217877A1 - Axially-expandable cooler cart and its method of use - Google Patents
Axially-expandable cooler cart and its method of use Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20190217877A1 US20190217877A1 US16/250,023 US201916250023A US2019217877A1 US 20190217877 A1 US20190217877 A1 US 20190217877A1 US 201916250023 A US201916250023 A US 201916250023A US 2019217877 A1 US2019217877 A1 US 2019217877A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- axially
- platform
- cooler
- rack
- wheeled
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
- B62B5/0083—Wheeled supports connected to the transported object
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B1/00—Hand carts having only one axis carrying one or more transport wheels; Equipment therefor
- B62B1/18—Hand carts having only one axis carrying one or more transport wheels; Equipment therefor in which the load is disposed between the wheel axis and the handles, e.g. wheelbarrows
- B62B1/20—Hand carts having only one axis carrying one or more transport wheels; Equipment therefor in which the load is disposed between the wheel axis and the handles, e.g. wheelbarrows involving parts being collapsible, attachable, detachable or convertible
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B1/00—Hand carts having only one axis carrying one or more transport wheels; Equipment therefor
- B62B1/18—Hand carts having only one axis carrying one or more transport wheels; Equipment therefor in which the load is disposed between the wheel axis and the handles, e.g. wheelbarrows
- B62B1/22—Hand carts having only one axis carrying one or more transport wheels; Equipment therefor in which the load is disposed between the wheel axis and the handles, e.g. wheelbarrows involving means for grappling or securing in place objects to be carried; Loading or unloading equipment
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B1/00—Hand carts having only one axis carrying one or more transport wheels; Equipment therefor
- B62B1/26—Hand carts having only one axis carrying one or more transport wheels; Equipment therefor characterised by supports specially adapted to objects of definite shape
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
- B62B5/06—Hand moving equipment, e.g. handle bars
- B62B5/067—Stowable or retractable handle bars
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
- B62B5/06—Hand moving equipment, e.g. handle bars
- B62B5/068—Connections to the body for moving the cart, e.g. harnesses
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B2202/00—Indexing codes relating to type or characteristics of transported articles
- B62B2202/12—Boxes, Crates
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B2204/00—Ventilation; Heating; Cooling; Insulation
- B62B2204/06—Ventilation; Heating; Cooling; Insulation comprising insulating materials
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B2206/00—Adjustable or convertible hand-propelled vehicles or sledges
- B62B2206/02—Adjustable or convertible hand-propelled vehicles or sledges adjustable in length or width
Definitions
- the technology described herein generally relates to carts for carrying containers, and more particularly relates to coolers.
- ice coolers also known as ice chests
- Such cooler usually includes a container with a closable lid, and one or more handles for lifting and carrying the laden cooler.
- Efforts to assist in the lifting and carrying of heavy ice coolers has include a two-wheeled cart for carrying the weight of the cooler while the user pulls the cooler forward.
- the present invention provides a two-wheeled cooler cart having an axially-expandable platform, and a method for hauling a cooler using the two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart.
- the present invention provides a two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart including: an axially-expandable platform, including a first platform member having an outer edge and a proximal edge, and a second platform member having an outer edge and a proximal edge, wherein the first platform member and the second platform member are moveable axially between a collapsed position where the respective proximal edges are in a confronting position, and an expanded position when the respective proximal edges are in a separated position with space between the first platform member and the second platform member; and a pair of wheels, including a first wheel connected through an axle to, and extending axially from, the outer edge of the first platform member, and a second wheel connected through an axle to, and extending axially from, the outer edge of the second platform member.
- the two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart further including at least one extender device including: a pair of elongated racks disposed on an underside of the first platform member, that extends axially from the proximal edge of the first platform member, the rack including a series of teeth along a length of the rack; a pair of elongated channel disposed on an underside of the second platform member, each channel extending axially and registering with one of the elongated racks, and configured to allow the rack to move axially along the channel; and a locking block moveable traversely to each rack, between a first position in which the locking block is disengaged from the rack, to allow the rack to move freely within the channel, and a second position in which the locking block is engaged with the rack, to fix the rack in an axial position within the channel.
- the rack includes a series of ratcheting teeth
- the locking block includes a series of teeth that engage and disengage with the teeth of the rack.
- the teeth of the rack and the teeth of the locking block comprise ratcheting teeth that allow the rack to extend into channel when the teeth of the locking block are engaged with the teeth of the rack.
- the locking block is in mechanical communication with a release handle, wherein the locking block moves away from the rack in response to a manipulation of the release handle in a direction axially and away from the locking blocks.
- the shape of the proximal edge of the first platform member is a complementary shape to a shape of the proximal edge of the second platform member.
- the wheel is a polyurethane balloon wheel.
- a method for hauling an insulated cooler comprising the steps of: a) providing a two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart according to the invention, b) manipulating the first platform member and the second platform member of the platform assembly into an expanded position, c) positioning an insulated cooler onto the platform assembly with a center of gravity (CG) of the cooler moved forward from a position over the platform assembly, d) pushing the first and second platform members toward one another to hold the cooler securely between the first and second platform members, e) providing a strap assembly including a securing strap member and an extending strap member, and securing the cooler to the platform assembly of the cart with the securing strap member, f) lacing the extending strap member through a front handle of the cooler, and g) raising by force a distal end of the extending strap member upward and forward to raise the front end of the cooler up and off of the ground, and to haul forward the cooler secured to the two-wheeled, axially-exp
- FIG. 1 shows a two-wheeled cart of the invention having an axially-expandable platform.
- FIG. 2 shows the two-wheeled cart in a collapsed position.
- FIG. 3 shows the two-wheeled cart in an expanded position.
- FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of the two-wheeled cart.
- FIG. 5 shows the two-wheeled cart in a closed position with the locking means in an engaged position.
- FIG. 6 shows the two-wheeled cart of FIG. 5 with the locking means manipulated to a disengaged position.
- FIG. 7 shows the two-wheeled cart of FIG. 6 manipulated to expand apart the platforms members of the platform assembly.
- FIG. 8 shows the two-wheeled cart of FIG. 7 with the locking means released to the engaged position.
- FIG. 11 shows the strap assembly extended through the front handle of the cart, and the handle raised to lift the front end of the cooler off the ground.
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a two-wheeled cart 10 including an axially-expandable platform assembly 20 and a strap assembly 80 .
- the axially-expandable platform assembly 20 includes a first platform member 21 and a second platform member 23 that are slide-connected to move axially (that is, parallel or along an axis 94 ) between a closed or collapsed position, shown in FIG. 2 , and an expanded position, shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 .
- the first platform member 21 includes a first platform 22 and a first sidewall 32 extending upward from an axially distal edge 25 of the first platform 22 .
- the second platform member 23 includes a second platform 24 and a second sidewall 34 extending upward from an axially (along the axis line 94 ) distal edge 26 of the second platform 24 .
- the first platform 22 includes an axially proximal edge 27
- the second platform 24 includes an axially proximal edge 28 .
- the proximal edge 27 of the first platform 22 is configured to register with the proximal edge 28 of the second platform 24 in a confronting position ( FIG. 2 ) when the axially-expandable platform assembly 20 is in the closed or collapsed position, while the respective proximal edges 27 and 28 are configured in a separated position ( FIG. 3 ) when the axially-expandable platform assembly 20 is in an expanded position.
- Each wheel 71 , 72 can be a polyurethane balloon tire that features a resilient tire material, available from Wheeleez, Inc. (wheeleez.com/wheels/pu/). Other convention pneumatic and bladderless tires can also be used.
- the axles 74 are secured in non-rotative position to the respective first and second platforms 22 , 24 , the respective wheels 71 , 72 are rotatably secured to the distal ends of the axles 74 .
- the first platform 22 and the first sidewall 32 are joined to form a right angle, and can be rigidly fixed in position, or can be hinged along the distal edge of the platform.
- the second platform 24 and the second sidewall 34 are joined into a right angle, and can be rigidly fixed in position, or can be hinged along the distal edge of the platform.
- the respective sidewall and platform can be formed unitarily, or can be two or more parts secured or fastened together by well-known means.
- the first platform 22 includes an upper member 21 a and a lower member 21 b , joined and secured face to face with fasteners 70 , 71 , 72 , for example, with a bolt and nut through a bore in the respective upper member 21 a and lower member 21 b.
- the second platform member 23 includes a pair of spaced-apart extending racks 40 , extending axially from opposite sides of the second platform 24 .
- the racks 40 are positioned beneath and extend axially from under the second platform 23 .
- the first platform 21 has a pair of spaced-apart elongated channels 42 , extending along opposite sides of the first platform 21 , and parallel with the axis 94 , which register with and are configured to receive the entire length of the extending racks 40 when the two-wheel cart is in the closed position.
- the elongated channels 42 can shaped and configured for fully extracting the extending racks 40 to the expanded position, and separating the first platform member 21 from the second platform member 23 .
- the distal ends 44 (shown in FIG. 5 ) can include a stop means to stop and retain the distal ends 44 in the channels 42 , and preventing separation of the first and second platform members.
- the locking means also includes a plurality of spaced-apart teeth 43 disposed in a series along an inwardly-facing edge of each extending rack 40 .
- the locking means further includes a pair of locking blocks 66 .
- Each locking block 66 is positioned within the first platform member 21 , and each locking block 66 includes a plurality of teeth 67 spaced apart in series along an outwardly-facing edge.
- a cable 63 is attached at one end to the opposite, inwardly-facing edge of each locking block 66 , and extends laterally to wrap around a pulley wheel 64 and axially to attach to the distal end of the limb 61 of the handle 60 .
- Each locking block 66 is configured for lateral movement between the engaged position, at which the teeth 67 register and engage the teeth 43 of the elongated racks 40 , and a disengaged position, at which the teeth 67 are not in engagement with the teeth 43 of the elongated racks 40 .
- a compression spring 68 ( FIG. 5 ) is position to bias the locking block 66 into the engaged position.
- the cables 63 draw the pair of locking blocks 66 to the disengaged position.
- the compression springs 63 return the pair of locking blocks 66 to the engaged position.
- the engage position the pairs of teeth 67 of the locking blocks 66 engage the teeth 43 of the racks 40 , to at least prevent the second platform member 23 from further expanding away from the first platform member 21 .
- the locking means can allow the second platform member 23 to be moved axially toward the first platform member 21 , without having to disengage the securing means, and specifically, without having to pull on the handle 60 to disengage the teeth 63 of the blocking blocks 66 from the teeth 43 of the racks 40 .
- the teeth 43 of the rack 40 have an angled surface that faces an angled surface of the teeth 67 of the locking blocks 6 , thereby forming pairs of ratcheting teeth.
- the pairs of ratcheting teeth allow the rack 40 to move axially, by ratcheting, into and along the channel 42 , which allows the first and second platform members to be collapsed even while the locking block 66 is in the engaged position.
- the opposite faces of the respective teeth 43 , 67 are typically square (perpendicular to the axis) to prevent axial movement, preventing the first and second platform members from expanding unless the handle 60 is pulled and the locking block 66 disengaged.
- a lock and release mechanism can include a plurality of holes disposed in the extending racks, with a pin dispose in the first platform member and extendable into and out of the channel 42 , to position and lock the racks 40 with the channels 42 , by moving the pin between a lock position, dispose within one of the holes, and an unlocked position, withdrawn from a hole.
- FIGS. 5-8 illustrate a method for expanding and closing the platform assembly 20 .
- the platform assembly 20 in FIG. 5 is in the closed position, with the handle 60 and the locking blocks 66 in the engaged positions.
- the user grasps the handle 60 and pulls distally, drawing the locking blocks 66 to their disengaged positions, shown in FIG. 6 .
- the handle 60 pulled, the user pulls the two platform members 21 , 23 apart (under forces E 1 and E 2 ), to expand the platform assembly 20 to an expanded position, shown in FIG. 7 .
- the locking blocks 66 engage the racks 40 , as shown in FIG. 8 .
- the platform assembly shown in FIG. 8 can be compressed back to the closed position of FIG. 5 without needing to manipulate the handle 60 .
- a two- wheeled cart 10 is provided.
- the two-wheeled cart 10 is manipulated to an expanded position shown in FIG. 9 .
- the cooler 90 is positioned onto the platform assembly 20 of the two-wheeled cart 10 so that the center of gravity (CG) of the cooler 90 is moved forward from a position over the platform assembly 20 .
- the first and second platform members 21 and 23 are then pushed toward one another, to hold the cooler 90 securely between the first and second sidewalls 24 , 34 .
- the strap assembly 80 is provided to secure the cooler to the platforms assembly 20 , and includes a securing strap member and an extending strap member.
- the securing strap member includes a pair of buckle straps 81 , secured at one end to the upper ends of the respective sidewall 32 and 34 , and a buckle 82 at the other end.
- a cover strap 83 includes opposed ends 84 that lace through the buckles 82 .
- the cover strap 83 is position over the lid 92 and secured around the cooler 90 by pulling down on the ends 84 of the cover strap portion 83 .
- the extending strap portion 86 is laced through the front handle 94 of the cooler 90 , and the handle 89 extended, as shown in FIG. 11 .
- the upward force L on the handle 94 of the cooler applies a lifting force H on the handle 94 at the front end 97 of the cooler 90 , to lift the front end 97 of the cooler 90 up and off of the ground.
- the strap 80 lifting the front handle 94 of the cooler 90 forms a class 2 lever, with the load (center of gravity (CG) of the cooler 90 ) between the fulcrum (platforms assembly) and the lifting force (handle 89 ).
- CG center of gravity
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Handcart (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/618,144 filed Jan. 17, 2018, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- The technology described herein generally relates to carts for carrying containers, and more particularly relates to coolers.
- Recreation such as camping, children and adult sporting events, and going to the beach usually includes one or more large volume ice coolers (also known as ice chests) with beverages, ice and food. Such cooler usually includes a container with a closable lid, and one or more handles for lifting and carrying the laden cooler. Efforts to assist in the lifting and carrying of heavy ice coolers has include a two-wheeled cart for carrying the weight of the cooler while the user pulls the cooler forward.
- Notwithstanding, there is a continuing need for an improved pour spout and lid for a wide-mouthed jar that has improved features for the cleaning of the pour spout and lid, and with improved sealing properties.
- The present invention provides a two-wheeled cooler cart having an axially-expandable platform, and a method for hauling a cooler using the two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart.
- The present invention provides a two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart including: an axially-expandable platform, including a first platform member having an outer edge and a proximal edge, and a second platform member having an outer edge and a proximal edge, wherein the first platform member and the second platform member are moveable axially between a collapsed position where the respective proximal edges are in a confronting position, and an expanded position when the respective proximal edges are in a separated position with space between the first platform member and the second platform member; and a pair of wheels, including a first wheel connected through an axle to, and extending axially from, the outer edge of the first platform member, and a second wheel connected through an axle to, and extending axially from, the outer edge of the second platform member.
- In an embodiment of the invention, the two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart according to the invention, further including at least one extender device including: a pair of elongated racks disposed on an underside of the first platform member, that extends axially from the proximal edge of the first platform member, the rack including a series of teeth along a length of the rack; a pair of elongated channel disposed on an underside of the second platform member, each channel extending axially and registering with one of the elongated racks, and configured to allow the rack to move axially along the channel; and a locking block moveable traversely to each rack, between a first position in which the locking block is disengaged from the rack, to allow the rack to move freely within the channel, and a second position in which the locking block is engaged with the rack, to fix the rack in an axial position within the channel.
- In a further embodiment, the rack includes a series of ratcheting teeth, and the locking block includes a series of teeth that engage and disengage with the teeth of the rack. In another embodiment, the teeth of the rack and the teeth of the locking block comprise ratcheting teeth that allow the rack to extend into channel when the teeth of the locking block are engaged with the teeth of the rack.
- In another embodiment, the locking block is in mechanical communication with a release handle, wherein the locking block moves away from the rack in response to a manipulation of the release handle in a direction axially and away from the locking blocks.
- In another embodiment, the shape of the proximal edge of the first platform member is a complementary shape to a shape of the proximal edge of the second platform member.
- In another embodiment, the wheel is a polyurethane balloon wheel.
- In another aspect of the invention a method is provided for hauling an insulated cooler, comprising the steps of: a) providing a two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart according to the invention, b) manipulating the first platform member and the second platform member of the platform assembly into an expanded position, c) positioning an insulated cooler onto the platform assembly with a center of gravity (CG) of the cooler moved forward from a position over the platform assembly, d) pushing the first and second platform members toward one another to hold the cooler securely between the first and second platform members, e) providing a strap assembly including a securing strap member and an extending strap member, and securing the cooler to the platform assembly of the cart with the securing strap member, f) lacing the extending strap member through a front handle of the cooler, and g) raising by force a distal end of the extending strap member upward and forward to raise the front end of the cooler up and off of the ground, and to haul forward the cooler secured to the two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart.
- These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.
-
FIG. 1 shows a two-wheeled cart of the invention having an axially-expandable platform. -
FIG. 2 shows the two-wheeled cart in a collapsed position. -
FIG. 3 shows the two-wheeled cart in an expanded position. -
FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of the two-wheeled cart. -
FIG. 5 shows the two-wheeled cart in a closed position with the locking means in an engaged position. -
FIG. 6 shows the two-wheeled cart ofFIG. 5 with the locking means manipulated to a disengaged position. -
FIG. 7 shows the two-wheeled cart ofFIG. 6 manipulated to expand apart the platforms members of the platform assembly. -
FIG. 8 shows the two-wheeled cart ofFIG. 7 with the locking means released to the engaged position. -
FIG. 9 shows the two-wheeled cart ofFIG. 1 with a cooler mounted on the cart, and being hauled with a strap assembly. -
FIG. 10 shows the cooler positioned on the two-wheeled cart with the center of gravity of the cooler positioned forward of the platform assembly, and secured to the two-wheeled cart with the strap assembly. -
FIG. 11 shows the strap assembly extended through the front handle of the cart, and the handle raised to lift the front end of the cooler off the ground. - The following detailed description provides modes contemplated for carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention.
-
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a two-wheeled cart 10 including an axially-expandable platform assembly 20 and astrap assembly 80. The axially-expandable platform assembly 20 includes afirst platform member 21 and asecond platform member 23 that are slide-connected to move axially (that is, parallel or along an axis 94) between a closed or collapsed position, shown inFIG. 2 , and an expanded position, shown inFIGS. 1 and 3 . Thefirst platform member 21 includes afirst platform 22 and afirst sidewall 32 extending upward from an axiallydistal edge 25 of thefirst platform 22. Thesecond platform member 23 includes asecond platform 24 and asecond sidewall 34 extending upward from an axially (along the axis line 94)distal edge 26 of thesecond platform 24. Thefirst platform 22 includes an axiallyproximal edge 27, and thesecond platform 24 includes an axiallyproximal edge 28. Theproximal edge 27 of thefirst platform 22 is configured to register with theproximal edge 28 of thesecond platform 24 in a confronting position (FIG. 2 ) when the axially-expandable platform assembly 20 is in the closed or collapsed position, while the respectiveproximal edges FIG. 3 ) when the axially-expandable platform assembly 20 is in an expanded position. -
FIG. 1 also shows afirst wheel 71 attached to thefirst member 21 through anaxle 74, and asecond wheel 72 attached to thesecond member 22 through asimilar axle 74. Theaxles 74 are disposed along anaxis 94 parallel with a plane passing through the upper surfaces of the first andsecond platforms respective axles 74 are secured into the first andsecond platforms wheels axles 74 with afastener 75, for example, a cotter pin. - Each
wheel axles 74 are secured in non-rotative position to the respective first andsecond platforms respective wheels axles 74. - The
first platform 22 and thefirst sidewall 32 are joined to form a right angle, and can be rigidly fixed in position, or can be hinged along the distal edge of the platform. Likewise, thesecond platform 24 and thesecond sidewall 34 are joined into a right angle, and can be rigidly fixed in position, or can be hinged along the distal edge of the platform. The respective sidewall and platform can be formed unitarily, or can be two or more parts secured or fastened together by well-known means. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , thefirst platform 22 includes anupper member 21 a and alower member 21 b, joined and secured face to face withfasteners upper member 21 a andlower member 21 b. - The
second platform member 23 includes a pair of spaced-apart extendingracks 40, extending axially from opposite sides of thesecond platform 24. Theracks 40 are positioned beneath and extend axially from under thesecond platform 23. Thefirst platform 21 has a pair of spaced-apartelongated channels 42, extending along opposite sides of thefirst platform 21, and parallel with theaxis 94, which register with and are configured to receive the entire length of the extendingracks 40 when the two-wheel cart is in the closed position. Theelongated channels 42 can shaped and configured for fully extracting the extendingracks 40 to the expanded position, and separating thefirst platform member 21 from thesecond platform member 23. In another embodiment, the distal ends 44 (shown inFIG. 5 ) can include a stop means to stop and retain thedistal ends 44 in thechannels 42, and preventing separation of the first and second platform members. - In an embodiment, the cart assembly can include a means for locking that can be manually actuated from a lock position to an unlocked position. In the illustrated embodiment shown in
FIG. 4 , the locking means includes ahandle 60 on an underside of the platform assembly, which can be manipulated or pulled to actuate the locking means.FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the features of the locking means. Thehandle 60 is positioned at the proximal end of the underside of thefirst platform member 21. The locking means also can include a biasing means, such as acompression spring 65, which is compressed when manipulating thehandle 60 from the released position (FIG. 5 ) to the activated or pulled position (FIG. 6 ), and which can return thehandle 60 to the released position when the force F applied to thehandle 60 is released (FIG. 8 ). Thehandle 60 also includes alimb 61 extending axially toward thesecond platform member 23. - The locking means also includes a plurality of spaced-
apart teeth 43 disposed in a series along an inwardly-facing edge of each extendingrack 40. The locking means further includes a pair oflocking blocks 66. Eachlocking block 66 is positioned within thefirst platform member 21, and eachlocking block 66 includes a plurality ofteeth 67 spaced apart in series along an outwardly-facing edge. Acable 63 is attached at one end to the opposite, inwardly-facing edge of each lockingblock 66, and extends laterally to wrap around apulley wheel 64 and axially to attach to the distal end of thelimb 61 of thehandle 60. Each lockingblock 66 is configured for lateral movement between the engaged position, at which theteeth 67 register and engage theteeth 43 of theelongated racks 40, and a disengaged position, at which theteeth 67 are not in engagement with theteeth 43 of the elongated racks 40. A compression spring 68 (FIG. 5 ) is position to bias the lockingblock 66 into the engaged position. When thehandle 60 is pulled distally, away from thepulleys 64, thecables 63 draw the pair of lockingblocks 66 to the disengaged position. When the force on thehandles 60 is removed, the compression springs 63 return the pair of lockingblocks 66 to the engaged position. In the engage position, the pairs ofteeth 67 of the locking blocks 66 engage theteeth 43 of theracks 40, to at least prevent thesecond platform member 23 from further expanding away from thefirst platform member 21. - In another embodiment, the locking means can allow the
second platform member 23 to be moved axially toward thefirst platform member 21, without having to disengage the securing means, and specifically, without having to pull on thehandle 60 to disengage theteeth 63 of the blocking blocks 66 from theteeth 43 of theracks 40. In an embodiment of the invention, theteeth 43 of therack 40 have an angled surface that faces an angled surface of theteeth 67 of the locking blocks 6, thereby forming pairs of ratcheting teeth. The pairs of ratcheting teeth allow therack 40 to move axially, by ratcheting, into and along thechannel 42, which allows the first and second platform members to be collapsed even while the lockingblock 66 is in the engaged position. The opposite faces of therespective teeth handle 60 is pulled and the lockingblock 66 disengaged. - In an alternative embodiment, a lock and release mechanism can include a plurality of holes disposed in the extending racks, with a pin dispose in the first platform member and extendable into and out of the
channel 42, to position and lock theracks 40 with thechannels 42, by moving the pin between a lock position, dispose within one of the holes, and an unlocked position, withdrawn from a hole. -
FIGS. 5-8 illustrate a method for expanding and closing theplatform assembly 20. Theplatform assembly 20 inFIG. 5 is in the closed position, with thehandle 60 and the locking blocks 66 in the engaged positions. To expand the platforms, the user grasps thehandle 60 and pulls distally, drawing the locking blocks 66 to their disengaged positions, shown inFIG. 6 . With thehandle 60 pulled, the user pulls the twoplatform members platform assembly 20 to an expanded position, shown inFIG. 7 . Once the user releases the pulling force F on thehandle 60, the locking blocks 66 engage theracks 40, as shown inFIG. 8 . Further expansion of the two platforms members is prevented by theteeth 67 of the locking blocks 66 engaging with theteeth 43 of theracks 40. In the illustrated embodiment, wherein the respective teeth of theracks 40 and lockingblocks 66 are ratcheting teeth, the platform assembly shown inFIG. 8 can be compressed back to the closed position ofFIG. 5 without needing to manipulate thehandle 60. - In a method for hauling a cooler using the two-wheeled, axially-expandable cart, a two- wheeled
cart 10 is provided. The two-wheeledcart 10 is manipulated to an expanded position shown inFIG. 9 . As shown inFIG. 10 , the cooler 90 is positioned onto theplatform assembly 20 of the two-wheeledcart 10 so that the center of gravity (CG) of the cooler 90 is moved forward from a position over theplatform assembly 20. The first andsecond platform members second sidewalls strap assembly 80 is provided to secure the cooler to theplatforms assembly 20, and includes a securing strap member and an extending strap member. The securing strap member includes a pair of buckle straps 81, secured at one end to the upper ends of therespective sidewall buckle 82 at the other end. Acover strap 83 includes opposed ends 84 that lace through thebuckles 82. Thecover strap 83 is position over thelid 92 and secured around the cooler 90 by pulling down on theends 84 of thecover strap portion 83. The extendingstrap portion 86 is laced through thefront handle 94 of the cooler 90, and thehandle 89 extended, as shown inFIG. 11 . When thehandle 89 is extended, the upward force L on thehandle 94 of the cooler applies a lifting force H on thehandle 94 at the front end 97 of the cooler 90, to lift the front end 97 of the cooler 90 up and off of the ground. Thestrap 80 lifting thefront handle 94 of the cooler 90 forms a class 2 lever, with the load (center of gravity (CG) of the cooler 90) between the fulcrum (platforms assembly) and the lifting force (handle 89). The further forward the center of gravity CG of the cooler 90 from theplatform assembly 20, the more stable the hauling of the cooler 90, and the greater the lifting force L needed to raise the front end 97 of the cooler 90 from the ground. - It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.
Claims (8)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/250,023 US10633009B2 (en) | 2018-01-17 | 2019-01-17 | Axially-expandable cooler cart and its method of use |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201862618144P | 2018-01-17 | 2018-01-17 | |
US16/250,023 US10633009B2 (en) | 2018-01-17 | 2019-01-17 | Axially-expandable cooler cart and its method of use |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20190217877A1 true US20190217877A1 (en) | 2019-07-18 |
US10633009B2 US10633009B2 (en) | 2020-04-28 |
Family
ID=67212705
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/250,023 Active US10633009B2 (en) | 2018-01-17 | 2019-01-17 | Axially-expandable cooler cart and its method of use |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US10633009B2 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11332263B2 (en) * | 2020-03-24 | 2022-05-17 | The Boeing Company | Trolley system and method for transferring cargo in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle |
USD972805S1 (en) * | 2020-08-31 | 2022-12-13 | Bill Kuo Piao Ho | Boat cart |
WO2023225137A1 (en) * | 2022-05-18 | 2023-11-23 | Briggs And Riley Travelware, Llc | Compression and expansion locking device for luggage and luggage containing same |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11008030B2 (en) * | 2019-02-22 | 2021-05-18 | Santiva Outdoors, L.L.C.—Series Ip | Adaptable modular attachment and accessory system for use with coolers, bait buckets and other containers |
US11788650B1 (en) | 2019-02-22 | 2023-10-17 | Santiva Outdoors, L.L.C. | Outdoor apparatus |
US11667312B1 (en) * | 2020-12-16 | 2023-06-06 | Molly Creek Llc | Personal watercraft transport assist device |
Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2650105A (en) * | 1949-07-20 | 1953-08-25 | Kent R Costikyan | Luggage carriage |
US4545592A (en) * | 1983-11-02 | 1985-10-08 | Boris Taskovic | Adjustable width luggage carrier apparatus |
US5169164A (en) * | 1991-01-14 | 1992-12-08 | Bradford Michael A | Cooler tote |
US6923468B1 (en) * | 2004-04-01 | 2005-08-02 | Cliff Barnett | Adjustable container carriage |
US9010770B2 (en) * | 2013-02-27 | 2015-04-21 | Brian Cantrell | Adjustable chassis system |
US9758184B1 (en) * | 2015-04-21 | 2017-09-12 | Milton Vaverek | Three wheel cargo cart with lifting drawbar |
Family Cites Families (42)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1788150A (en) | 1927-11-16 | 1931-01-06 | William H Curtin | Baggage carrier |
US2392926A (en) | 1943-07-26 | 1946-01-15 | Kelly Daniel Allcott | Hand luggage attachment |
US2375338A (en) | 1943-10-09 | 1945-05-08 | Edith F Alexander | Luggage carriage |
US2439660A (en) | 1946-06-19 | 1948-04-13 | Keil Rudolph | Wheeled trunk and the like |
US2696990A (en) | 1950-01-21 | 1954-12-14 | Francis W Davis | Carriage for suitcase or the like |
US2683609A (en) | 1950-03-04 | 1954-07-13 | Altemus James Dobson | Extensible luggage carrier |
US2730373A (en) | 1953-03-02 | 1956-01-10 | George A Blevins | Adjustable dolly for kitchen stoves and the like |
US2883731A (en) | 1958-02-06 | 1959-04-28 | Wells Bessina | Buddy cart |
US2919138A (en) | 1958-03-07 | 1959-12-29 | Brower Bailey | Dolly attachments for suit cases or like articles of manufacture |
US3539194A (en) | 1968-08-27 | 1970-11-10 | Tony W Stiles | Duffelbag carrier |
US3591194A (en) | 1968-11-08 | 1971-07-06 | Philip Vega | Ice chest cart |
US3754773A (en) | 1972-01-24 | 1973-08-28 | M Bruno | Luggage rollers |
GB1414161A (en) | 1972-05-17 | 1975-11-19 | Norland Gazelle Travel Goods | Luggage trolleys |
US3912139A (en) | 1974-01-17 | 1975-10-14 | Jimmy W Bowman | Removable vehicle mounted cycle carrier |
US3963256A (en) | 1975-05-20 | 1976-06-15 | Stafford Josephine C | Luggage wheels |
US3995565A (en) | 1975-11-13 | 1976-12-07 | Kersey Henry C | Extensible telescoping cargo brace |
US4451053A (en) | 1981-10-13 | 1984-05-29 | Daniel Alioa | Hand cart |
US4950123A (en) | 1987-10-19 | 1990-08-21 | Donald Volhard | Retractable bed for truck |
US4846493A (en) | 1987-10-26 | 1989-07-11 | Mason Donald W | Portable cooler with retractable wheels |
US4976448A (en) | 1988-06-13 | 1990-12-11 | Right Products, Inc. | Mobile cooler chest and cooler chest support |
US4873841A (en) | 1989-04-03 | 1989-10-17 | William Bradshaw | Portable cooler |
US5249823A (en) | 1992-10-09 | 1993-10-05 | E.B.S. Equipment Services, Inc. | Size variable cart |
USD348132S (en) | 1993-01-14 | 1994-06-21 | E.B.S. Equipment Broker Services, Inc. | Cart |
US5313817A (en) | 1993-05-07 | 1994-05-24 | Meinders Larry L | Wheelable, storable cooler |
US5988658A (en) | 1997-05-12 | 1999-11-23 | Waterloo Industries, Inc. | Tool box carrier |
US6328364B1 (en) | 1998-09-11 | 2001-12-11 | Durakon Acquisition Corp. | Pull out drawer system for vehicles and trailers |
US6305513B1 (en) | 2000-11-14 | 2001-10-23 | Ting Cheng Co., Ltd. | Mechanism for supporting expandable pouch of luggage |
CA2392444C (en) | 2002-07-04 | 2009-05-26 | Ronald Frederick Carlson | Retractable cargo bed |
US6783147B1 (en) | 2002-08-21 | 2004-08-31 | Morris E. Green, Sr. | Cooler cart |
USD491727S1 (en) | 2002-10-23 | 2004-06-22 | Thomas L. Koenig | Wheel set for a duffle bag |
US7237817B2 (en) | 2004-01-26 | 2007-07-03 | Tony Kobylski | Roll-out cargo bed with cable tension release mechanism |
US7328779B2 (en) | 2004-10-06 | 2008-02-12 | Samsonite Corporation | Ratchet compressor for expandable luggage |
US7441783B2 (en) | 2005-03-21 | 2008-10-28 | Ez Does It Cart, Inc. | Utility cart |
CA2533704A1 (en) | 2006-01-24 | 2007-07-24 | 3980367 Canada Inc. | Cart for carrying a plate-shaped tool |
US20070210599A1 (en) | 2006-03-07 | 2007-09-13 | Arnold Ronald S | Retractable sliding cargo bed |
US8020911B2 (en) | 2006-11-28 | 2011-09-20 | Mckelvey Richard L | Sliding cargo carrier for vehicle |
US8123236B1 (en) | 2010-02-12 | 2012-02-28 | James Helenihi | Universal cooler wheels |
EP2773236B1 (en) | 2011-11-04 | 2018-09-19 | Briggs & Riley Travelware LLC | Luggage comprising a ratchet-type expansion system |
US9227547B2 (en) | 2013-08-19 | 2016-01-05 | Currentwrx LLC | Latch system |
US9278704B2 (en) | 2013-10-24 | 2016-03-08 | John David Cates | Wheeled system for coolers |
US9199657B2 (en) | 2014-01-17 | 2015-12-01 | Daniel Todd Martin | Cooler transporting device |
US9387891B2 (en) | 2014-10-31 | 2016-07-12 | Currentwrx, LLC | Slidable conveyance assembly |
-
2019
- 2019-01-17 US US16/250,023 patent/US10633009B2/en active Active
Patent Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2650105A (en) * | 1949-07-20 | 1953-08-25 | Kent R Costikyan | Luggage carriage |
US4545592A (en) * | 1983-11-02 | 1985-10-08 | Boris Taskovic | Adjustable width luggage carrier apparatus |
US5169164A (en) * | 1991-01-14 | 1992-12-08 | Bradford Michael A | Cooler tote |
US6923468B1 (en) * | 2004-04-01 | 2005-08-02 | Cliff Barnett | Adjustable container carriage |
US9010770B2 (en) * | 2013-02-27 | 2015-04-21 | Brian Cantrell | Adjustable chassis system |
US9758184B1 (en) * | 2015-04-21 | 2017-09-12 | Milton Vaverek | Three wheel cargo cart with lifting drawbar |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11332263B2 (en) * | 2020-03-24 | 2022-05-17 | The Boeing Company | Trolley system and method for transferring cargo in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle |
US20220219836A1 (en) * | 2020-03-24 | 2022-07-14 | The Boeing Company | Trolley system and method for transferring cargo in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle |
US11628953B2 (en) * | 2020-03-24 | 2023-04-18 | The Boeing Company | Trolley system and method for transferring cargo in relation to a cargo compartment of a vehicle |
USD972805S1 (en) * | 2020-08-31 | 2022-12-13 | Bill Kuo Piao Ho | Boat cart |
WO2023225137A1 (en) * | 2022-05-18 | 2023-11-23 | Briggs And Riley Travelware, Llc | Compression and expansion locking device for luggage and luggage containing same |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US10633009B2 (en) | 2020-04-28 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US10633009B2 (en) | Axially-expandable cooler cart and its method of use | |
US9278704B2 (en) | Wheeled system for coolers | |
US10558234B2 (en) | Winch mechanism for a carrier truck | |
US8561769B2 (en) | Stackable, towable luggage | |
US8522938B2 (en) | Article securement system | |
US5893495A (en) | Conversion apparatus for a backpack | |
US5649718A (en) | Utility cart | |
US8651500B2 (en) | Dolly transport systems | |
US7775334B2 (en) | Rotatable handle and method for attaching a first carry bag system to a second carry bag system, and carry bag having same | |
US6923468B1 (en) | Adjustable container carriage | |
US8366125B2 (en) | Wild game cart | |
US20220234487A1 (en) | Ramp device for loading and unloading vehicles | |
US7032921B2 (en) | Cart to transport equipment or the like | |
US6382643B1 (en) | Portable cross-framed dolly | |
US20100201091A1 (en) | Single-wheeled and double-wheeled wheelbarrow | |
CA3120245A1 (en) | Shopping trolley | |
US2397433A (en) | Article or luggage carrier | |
US20220063362A1 (en) | Modular non-electric and/or electric powered wheeled cart capable of attaching to a vehicle | |
US9156319B1 (en) | Quick change dual purpose draw bar | |
US20210171084A1 (en) | Sled for sandy terrain | |
USRE48174E1 (en) | Non-abrasive secure attachment device for a multi-cart control system | |
CN207433616U (en) | Pseudo-classic style lightweight Wooden ox and gliding horse transporter | |
JP2006288561A (en) | Sled implement for wheelchairs | |
US20240124045A1 (en) | Device, system and method for transporting objects over loose terrain | |
EP2955089A1 (en) | Vehicle |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO UNDISCOUNTED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: BIG.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO SMALL (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: SMAL); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NOTICE OF ALLOWANCE MAILED -- APPLICATION RECEIVED IN OFFICE OF PUBLICATIONS |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: AWAITING TC RESP., ISSUE FEE NOT PAID |
|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
MAFP | Maintenance fee payment |
Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 4TH YR, SMALL ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M2551); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY Year of fee payment: 4 |